Bags & Storage for Gravel Bike setup
UK-based Apidura was one of the first companies producing bikepacking bags and is a well-trusted brand in the communities of bikepackers and ultradistance racers. I ended up purchasing various luggage items from them, primarily for my gravel bike setup, aiming to maximize available space. The packs and accessories I use are:
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Apidura Expedition Saddle Pack, 17L
Holds camping items (tent, stove, sleeping mat) and other items not used during the day.
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Apidura Expedition Compact Frame Pack, 3L
Used for easy access items like tools and spares, as well as any small snack items.
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Apidura Expedition Handlebar Pack, 9L
For lightweight items. I use it to carry my sleeping bag and pjs.
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Apidura Expedition Accessory Pocket Dry, 4.5L
Additional storage pocked that attaches to handlebar pack. Handy for accessing frequently used items.
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Apidura Backcountry Food Pouch Plus, 1.2L
Mounted to the handlebars, stem and fork, it provides storage space for snack items or can also hold a full water bottle.
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Apidura Expedition Top Tube Bag, 1L
Another spot to store items that need to be accessed frequently during the day. I use it either to carry an external battery or for food items.
Attempting to optimize (frame) space even further, I use additional items for storage and space optimization:
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Bedrock Sinbad Stash Pack
Trying to further maximize the available frame space. Used for compressible items like socks or underwear.
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Dilwe Zip Case Tool Bag
Water bottle-sized hard shell tool case. Perfect for keeping repair tools in one place.
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ELITE Byasi Bicycle Tool Storage Bottle
Another bottle-size storage solution. Usually kept energy bars, gels, and other snacks in there.
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Wolf Tooth B-RAD Mounting Base 2
Helps with using available space more efficiently by shifting the mount points.
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CamelBak M.U.L.E.® Hydration Backpack
If the trip warrants it, I am bringing this backpack, which includes a hydration system.
Bags & Storage for Mountain Bike setup
When opting for a bikepacking setup on a mountain bike, I am reusing some of the bags and packs from the gravel setup above (like the Saddle Pack and Top Tube Bag). However, I also use some other, mountain bike-specific setup items.
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Salsa EXP Series Anything Cradle
Bracket-mount handlebar roll system that holds gear in front of your handlebars.
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Salsa EXP Series Anything Cradle Front Pouch
Integrates with the Anything Cradle and Dry Bag. Ideal for accessing gear needed frequently throughout the day.
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Revelate Designs Ranger Frame Bag
Durable, rugged bag that takes advantage of the full triangle space.
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Revelate Designs Mountain Feedbag
Ample storage for food items or a full-size water bottle, attached to handlebar and stem.
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King Cage Universal Support Bolt
For bikes with a lack of braze-ons/eyelets, this allows mounting of additional accessories.
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King Cage Manything Cage
Multi-purpose cage that can hold a variety of items. Attaches to the Universal Support Bolts and comes with optional Voile Straps. I use it mostly for additional water bottles.